Taking the plunge into homeschooling can feel intimidating. From lesson plans to curriculum choices to compliance with state laws, it can feel like there is a lot to coordinate. However, understanding state homeschool requirements brings families one step closer to enjoying the freedom that homeschooling affords. In West Virginia, parents have two options for homeschooling their children:
- Option 1 involves seeking school board approval to teach board-approved subjects at home. The school district may deny this request.
- Option 2 involves homeschooling by submitting an initial notice of intent to homeschool. This notice must contain required information to excuse students from compulsory school attendance.
West Virginia Homeschool Mandates for Option 2 – Notice of Intent
West Virginia compulsory attendance laws require children to be in school from the age of 6 through 17. (Some counties require attendance through age 18.) When homeschooling by submitting a notice of intent (option 2), parents are not required to meet student immunization requirements. However, parents must:
- Hold either a high school diploma/equivalent or a post-secondary degree from an accredited institution.
- File an initial notice of intent to homeschool containing required information.
- Teach the required subjects.
- Submit their students to annual evaluation through one of four options offered by the state of West Virginia.
- Submit assessment results to the county superintendent for students in grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 by June 30.
The required subjects in the state of West Virginia are:
- Reading
- Language
- Math
- Science
- Social studies
Please consult the Department of Education for more information on homeschooling under the two options in the state of West Virginia.
How to Withdraw Your Child from School in West Virginia
If your children currently attend a public or private school, you will need to withdraw them to homeschool under option 2. In many cases, sending a withdrawal letter by certified mail to your school district will suffice. To begin homeschooling under option 2, parents must file a notice of intent with the school district.
Special Education Provisions
West Virginia has no additional requirements for parents wishing to homeschool their special needs children. Furthermore, the state does not require school districts to provide special education services or funds to homeschoolers.
Record Keeping
The state of West Virginia does not have record-keeping requirements for homeschoolers. However, it is wise to maintain a file for each student containing:
- School district correspondence
- Attendance records
- Curriculum information
- Samples of student work
- Testing results
With a clear understanding of West Virginia homeschool laws and the wide availability of resources, homeschooling doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. LightSail’s comprehensive language arts platform provides children with the tools to grow reading, writing, and vocabulary skills. At the same time, LightSail’s built-in assessments and progress-tracking capabilities give parents peace of mind about meeting the homeschool requirements of West Virginia.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice. State laws are constantly changing. Consult an attorney or call your state’s Department of Education for any questions regarding the legalities of homeschooling.
